I’m looking for a place to live. It shouldn’t be that hard. I’m 28 (a month away from 29 – ulp), I have residual university debts which I’m trying to pay off but I earn well enough and I live in a highly urbanised area.

So guess what? It’s going to cost me around £1,300 to set foot over the doorstep of my new abode, wherever it may be and finding it ain’t no picnic either. The lower limit seems to be around £400 per month for a 2 bedroom pigeonhole above a shop in a dodgy area. There are a few decent pads for a reasonable price but I’m stumped for the deposit and the fees.

The regular way of doing things so far as I am aware is to apply to the council housing department and to various housing associations, but I have made contact with them and they tell me I don’t stand a chance as I don’t have children, a medical condition or lack of a roof over my head and I will remain on the waiting list for at least 5 years. True enough, housing should go to those most in need, but fuck, what am I supposed to do? I’m nearly 30 for fucks sake and I can’t afford to move out of my parents house even on 2 wages? 5 YEARS??? Is there really such a lack of affordable housing?

Looks like I’ll either be saving for a few months or taking out a loan.

It shouldn’t be this hard.